A group of farmers has been exploring ways to improve mental health in the farming community through a Farming Connect initiative.

The Agrisgôp group, led by Rhian Jones, brought together nine farmers running beef, sheep, dairy and poultry enterprises.

The group met to discuss pressures faced by farmers and ways of supporting mental health.

Agrisgôp is one of Farming Connect’s longest-running services, having supported farmers and growers since 2003. It brings groups together to tackle business challenges, develop ideas and explore opportunities.

Members shared their experiences and discussed common sources of stress, while looking at ways to cope, including social interaction, exercise and a more positive mindset.

Rhian, who is also a Regional Champion for the DPJ Foundation, said the group had worked well together.

“I think hearing from each other and the industry experts gave the group members valuable insight into what improves someone’s mental health,” she said.

One member, Ffion Hooson, runs a mixed livestock farm. She said she had found things “quite overwhelming at times” before joining the group.

“Farming can be mentally tough, with long hours, financial pressures, and the constant responsibility that comes with looking after livestock,” she said.

“It can also feel quite lonely, especially when most of your work is done on your own.”

The group took part in practical sessions including a visit to a farm-based fitness initiative and activities exploring mindfulness. They also looked at how diet, hydration and lifestyle changes can affect wellbeing.

Guest speakers covered resilience, behaviour change, counselling and mental health awareness. Members were also given advice on recognising signs of poor mental health and supporting others.

During the programme, participants set goals and tried new approaches including gym sessions and yoga.

For Ffion, joining a gym was one of the biggest changes. She said it gave her something away from the farm that was just for herself.

“Exercise has given me a way to clear my head and step away from the day-to-day pressures of farming,” she said.

She said she felt stronger and had more energy, while exercise had improved her mood and confidence.

The group also developed listening and questioning skills, helping members feel more confident discussing mental health.

Ffion said being able to speak openly with people facing similar challenges helped her realise she was not alone.

She said the experience had left her “more positive and more aware of the importance of looking after my own wellbeing”.

“Taking those small steps—joining the group, talking more openly, and making time for exercise—has helped me feel more balanced and better able to deal with the challenges that come with farming,” she said.

Rhian said it was encouraging to see members making positive changes.

The group combined peer support and expert advice to help participants manage their wellbeing and support others in farming.

Agrisgôp is available to farmers and growers looking to develop ideas, diversify or connect. The service offers expert facilitation, specialist speakers, study visits and optional one-to-one coaching.